My California Dream
by Charlie Presta
1957 T-1 Coupe numbers matching all original body panels (hood,
doors, deck lid) The pans and battery box have been replaced, and spots
in the trunk and engine bay also. Normal engine punched out to
1725cc and a few other little goodies to go along with. Meissen
Blue with saddle leather interior is the original color combo. The
car started its life in California under the ownership of Don Gilbert
for 30 plus years. Don worked his way back to the Midwest where he
landed in Michigan. This is where I found the car, I think I may
be the third owner. Shipped the car to California where I met some
very wonderful people over the years.
The car has been through a total nut and bolt restoration. Under
the direction of Dave Pollard RESTORATION WORKS (body/paint and
assembly) Chico, CA, Craig Smith (engine/trans and mechanical) Morro
Bay, CA, Roy Nielsen (interior/trim) Cambria, CA, and many other along
the way. This could not have happened if it weren't for my
extended family in California. Mike Allen, Bob Lee, Pete McNaulty
and Jeff Trask and their wives (olive garden). Test driving the
car up and down over and out the California coast was a BLAST.
First show it took top honors in its class, 29th annual Chico Concours
d'Elegance.
The car now is back in Wisconsin to enjoy the Midwest roads. A
Coupes are getting harder to find. The car speaks for itself very
little was spared. I also have a 1964 C coupe Silver/Blue normal,
outstanding driver in WI and a 1968 912 in El Cajon,Ca. I don't
know where all this craziness started I had Corvettes when I was growing
up. Maybe Carmella's pasta sauce, God rest her soul.
Ciao!!
Charlie